Principal Security Analyst (Remote)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,300,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Remote-first work

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Principal Security Analyst for a fully remote role focused on advanced cybersecurity. You will define and execute sophisticated security measures to protect algorithms, data, and intellectual property across distributed teams.

The role requires a strategic security vision, strong analytical skills, and the ability to mentor other security professionals in a remote-first environment. A master’s degree and 10+ years in security are expected.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field or equivalent experience.
• 10+ years of information security experience with focus on advanced analysis and incident response.
• Certifications such as CISSP, OSCP, GCFA, or GCIH are strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced threat detection and incident response strategies.
• Conduct forensic investigations and root-cause analyses of complex security incidents.
• Perform risk assessments and threat modeling for new and existing systems.
• Recommend security architecture improvements to strengthen overall posture.
• Lead security projects and mentor security professionals.

Skills

Threat detection

Incident response

Forensics

Security architecture

Threat modeling

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Cybersecurity or related field

Tools

Python scripting

Cloud security (AWS/GCP)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge technology firm specializing in AI and machine learning, is seeking an exceptional Principal Security Analyst to join their fully remote workforce. This senior role requires an individual with a profound understanding of advanced cybersecurity threats, risk management, and incident response strategies. You will be instrumental in defining and executing sophisticated security measures to protect proprietary algorithms, sensitive data, and intellectual property. As a remote-first organization, we empower our employees with the autonomy to excel in their roles, fostering innovation and collaboration across distributed teams. The ideal candidate will possess a strategic vision for security, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to mentor and guide other security professionals. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a highly innovative company and play a critical part in securing its future.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced threat detection and incident response strategies.
• Conduct in-depth forensic investigations and root cause analyses of complex security incidents.
• Perform comprehensive security risk assessments and threat modeling for new and existing systems.
• Design and advocate for security architecture improvements to enhance the overall security posture.
• Stay at the forefront of emerging cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and defense mechanisms.
• Lead security projects, driving them to successful completion and ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Develop and maintain security documentation, playbooks, and operational procedures.
• Provide expert consultation on security matters to technical and executive leadership.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or a related field; relevant experience considered.
• 10+ years of experience in information security, with a strong emphasis on advanced analysis and incident response.
• Proven expertise in threat intelligence, malware analysis, digital forensics, and incident management.
• Deep understanding of network protocols, operating systems (Linux, Windows), cloud environments (AWS, GCP), and application security.
• Experience with scripting languages (Python, Bash) for automation is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking capabilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present findings to diverse audiences.
• Relevant advanced certifications such as CISSP, OSCP, GCFA, or GCIH are strongly preferred.

Benefits

• Highly competitive compensation package and stock options.
• Comprehensive global health insurance and retirement planning.
• Fully remote work arrangement with significant flexibility.
• Generous budget for professional development, conferences, and certifications.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking AI/ML security challenges.
• A culture that values innovation, collaboration, and employee well-being.